For thousands of Australians managing kidney dialysis at home, a simple finger-prick test could soon replace complex hospital visits to monitor for potentially dangerous complications.
Tasmanian researchers are developing a world-first blood test that picks up harmful compounds formed when antibiotics are mixed with dialysis fluids – a serious but under-recognised risk that has been hard to track until now.
The issue affects people using peritoneal dialysis, a method where patients treat themselves at home by pumping fluid into their abdomen. If they develop an infection, antibiotics are often added directly into the dialysis solution.
However, one commonly used antibiotic, ceftazidime, breaks down in dialysis fluids to form pyridine, which is known to harm the brain, liver and kidneys.
“This project is about making dialysis treatment safer for patients managing their treatments from the comforts of their own home,” said research lead Dr Rahul Patel from the University of Tasmania’s School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology.
The problem is especially relevant in Tasmania, which has the highest rate of chronic kidney disease in the country affecting 12.5% of the population.
Dr Patel’s studies have shown pyridine levels can exceed safe limits by more than 400% in some dialysis solutions. Previous research found exposure to pyridine vapours for just four hours daily over one to two weeks caused neurological problems.
“By developing a sensitive test that can be used with a simple finger prick and posted back for testing, we’re removing the barriers of complex sample collection,” Dr Patel said.
The project is being backed by the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation and Tasmanian seafood producer Huon Aquaculture.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Huon for backing a project that could improve the lives of people in Tasmania and beyond,” said foundation CEO Stephanie Furler.
If the test proves successful, it could have global impact. Peritoneal dialysis is used worldwide and the issue with pyridine can occur anywhere ceftazidime is mixed with dialysis fluids.
